9 Must-Try London Fitness Challenges For May

Ditch your London gym membership this May and try one of these quirky fitness challenges instead.

Lee Valley Aquathlon

The Lee Valley Aquathlon is a monthly event, kicking off on 3 May. Swim in the lake (250m or 500m) then run round the River Lee Country Park (3k or 5.5k) on the first Tuesday of each month until September. The Aquathlon is open to anyone over 18, whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned triathlete. 3 May, 7pm, Lee Valley White Water Centre, Waltham Cross, EN9

Ramble Round Richmond

Mark Deaf Awareness Week with a 7.4 mile ramble around Richmond Park, one of the quietest places in London. There'll be rest points along the way where you can enjoy light snacks. 7 May, 9.30am, Richmond Park, leaving from Sheen Gate Car Park

Muddy Dog Challenge

Take part in the UK's best obstacle course for humans and their doggy friends in aid of Battersea Dogs & Cats home. Choose between 2.5k and 5k challenges; and don't be put off if you don't have a dog. You can still join in without a canine accompanying you. 7 May, 9am, Brockwell Park, Dulwich Road, SE24

Tweed Run

The Tweed Run is a one-of-a-kind 12-mile cycle ride through London, with participants wearing their best tweed 1920s and 30s cycling attire, and enjoying various retro shenanigans en route. There are prizes for best dressed, best vintage bike, best decorated bike, and best moustache. One top tip: bowler hats are more bike-friendly than top hats. 14 May, Clerkenwell

Gauntlet Games

The Gauntlet Games promise a 10k or 5k obstacle course race with real gladiators and added giggles. Bounce, slide and fight your way through all kinds of crazy challenges: the Trent Park highlight is a giant slide from the Obelisk (the park's highest point) offering sweeping views across London.14 May, 9.30am, Trent Park, Enfield, EN4

Vitality London 10,000

The London 10,000 starts on The Mall and finishes opposite Buckingham Palace. Runners follow a route around the City of Westminster and the City of London, passing many of London's famous sights including Nelson's Column, St Paul's Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. 30 May, St James's Park

Did we miss any other cool fitness challenges taking place in London this May? Let us know in the comments below.